The first thing to note is that if you're using an iPhone 5 / iPad 4 or below, then iOS 11 will remain out of reach. This update marks the end of support for Apple's 5th generation iPhone, which released almost five years ago.

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But for those sporting newer devices, iOS 11 will bring a ream of enhancements to Apple's mobile devices. As with many Apple OS updates, there are no seismic shifts here, but small, useful updates which may change you use your device in certain situations.

1. No more searching for passwords – share WiFi access with ease

iOS 11 will finally spare you the tedious process of hunting for their network password every time you want to grant access to your friends.

By pressing an iPhone or iPad running iOS 11 against another device which is already logged in, a request for access is sent to the logged-in user, according to 9to5 Mac. They can then easily send the WiFi password to the new device with a single tap. Say goodbye to scrabbling behind the router with your best specs on.

2. Say hello to indoor mapping for airports and shopping centres

Apple's adding indoor mapping to Apple Maps so you can scan through building floor plans. In shopping centres, you'll be able to see a list of individual shops and their locations. In airports, it will show the position of security, helping you quickly make your way to the correct gate for your flight.

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The service will be pushed out across a number of cities worldwide at launch, and Heathrow is among the airports with floor plans from day one.

3. Control Centre customisation is coming

In iOS 11, the Control Centre is getting a new look with extra functionality. You'll be able to customise the screen to your needs with extra widgets and buttons – so, for example, a Home control which dims the lights, or a button for Apple TV.

It's got the potential to look pretty busy, but there's always the option to keep it clean and simple if you like.

5. Siri speaks more languages

Google Assistant already allows users to translate phrases and words from one language to another, and now Apple's own Siri is joining the multi-lingual AI party. With iOS 11, users can ask Siri how to say certain English-language phrases in Chinese, French, German, Italian and Spanish.

This DND mode can easily be shut off (and is by default – it will ask you if you want to activate it after your first car journey), and contacts can be listed as exceptions in case you're expecting an important call or message.

7. Much like winter, Augmented Reality is coming

Apple is introducing a new kit, (called ARKit) that will allow developers to create the next generation of augmented reality apps for iPhones. This means more games – and more creative and social apps – that will embrace AR.

As per usual, the full list of changes and updates is almost oppressively large. Other new features you can expect in iOS 11 include automatic app deletion, a redesigned Apple Music app, better video compression, three-way multitasking for iPads, and the ability to drag and drop photos and files between apps.

iOS 11 will be released in autumn, probably some time around the launch of Apple's new iPhone (put your money on September).